As a new immigrant, with no Canadian wok experience, getting a job might be a seemingly difficult task. And it can be challenging and tiring. While some people can get jobs within a few weeks of arriving in Canada, it might take others months. Irrespective of your skill levels and experience, having a good strategy will help you through the journey. This starts with having a good plan. You should start by reading our article on job search strategies for new immigrants in Canada. This article will focus on the job search resources for a new immigrant in Alberta. And it is a continuation of our series on how to boost your career in Canada.
1. Organizations to Help with Job Search
There are a number of organizations that help people find work and build your career in Alberta. These include
- Alberta Association of Immigrant Serving Agencies who offer services to new immigrants, including help with finding a job.
- alis provides career, learning and employment information for Albertans. Their “Working in Alberta: A Guide for Internationally Trained and Educated Immigrants” is a good resource.
- Alberta Supports Centres where you get access to employment programs and services across Alberta. Their programs includes job fairs, workshops, information sessions, and labour market information.
2. The Alberta Job Market
Before you arrive in Alberta, it is important that you find out more about occupations in Alberta. You need to know details like duties, working conditions and salary ranges, which will give you a better idea of what to expect in the workplace.
Salaries in Alberta vary depending on the employer, hours worked and educational qualifications. Experience and responsibilities which the position requires are also taken into consideration. Alberta wages are among the highest in Canada.
In addition, learn also know about the employment standards and health and safety regulations that employers must follow in Alberta
READ ALSO: HOW TO GET DRIVER’S LICENCE AS A NEW IMMIGRANT
3. How to Find a Job in Alberta
Research Available Job Opportunities
Start by looking for jobs that require the skills you have.
The Government of Canada’s Job Bank has a list of current job opportunities in Alberta. Other places to find jobs include the Alberta Job Postings and websites that advertise opportunities throughout Alberta.
Register with Employment Agencies
Employment agencies can also help you find the right job. There are agencies that specialize in temporary work placements or permanent placements. Some specialize in both. There are also that focus only on specific industries. Employment agencies cannot charge you a fee for helping you find a job. This cost is usually covered by the employer.
Take Advantage of Settlement Services
There are settlement organizations that help new immigrants to find a job. They have job search resources for a new immigrant that you can access any time. Some of them also run an internship program that allows you to get the required Canadian experience. Their programs normally run from 6 months to 1 year. So, take advantage of this.
Network and talk to people
Another way to find work is by networking. You achieve this by talking to friends, neighbours or people in your community. You can also take advantage of mentorship programs which can connect you with someone working in your profession. They help you understand what you need to get a job and advance in your occupation. If you are living in either Edmonton or Calgary, you should reach out to them
- Edmonton Region Immigrant Employment Council (ERIEC)
- Calgary Region Immigrant Employment Council (CRIEC)
Improve your Resumé and Cover Letter
Your resumé should include your skills while highlighting specific ones that the employer needs. A cover letter should give an employer reasons to read your resumé. It is usually a one-page document that summarizes your experience and explains why you are the best candidate for the job. One of the ways to ensure you get that job is when your resume and cover letter stand out.
Get the required help to improve your resumé and cover letter.
READ ALSO: CHECKLIST FOR STARTING A BUSINESS IN CANADA
4. Available Options to New Immigrants
Some people apply for several positions before they get a job offer. If you fall into this category, do not get discouraged even if it takes longer than you expect.
Consider applying for jobs in a related area to help you build valuable experience or consider going back to school..
Volunteering can also help you build Canadian work experience, improve your skills and develop your professional and personal network.
Find a Temporary Job
A temporary job may not fit your education or professional training. However, it can help you:
- build Canadian work experience
- improve your English language skills
- learn about Canadian workplace culture
- meet new people and build up your networks of contacts
Consider Starting a Business
Some people have come into the country and start their business. If you have a business idea, it may be a good idea to pursue it. There are a lot of resources available to help people start a business in Canada. In Alberta, the following resources can help you start a successful business:
- Business link: tools and resources to bring your business idea to life
- Alberta Small Business Resources: This is a directory of business resources for new and established entrepreneurs
- Self-employment: alis provide resources to help you start and build a successful business
5. Additional Job Search Resources for a New Immigrant
If you need more help with your job search, visit alis and Alberta Supports Centres. The Alberta Supports Contact Centre provides information and referrals about career, education, and employment options in Alberta.
Alberta Association of Immigrant Serving Agencies offer services to newcomers, including help with finding a job.
